A local hub for drinks and grub formerly known as Don Cherry’s Sports Grill has officially re-opened its doors after rebranding as “Perfect SZN”. Since the spring of 2012, Don Cherry’s Sports Grill has become a local staple and the place to catch a game with some friends or celebrate a special occasion with family. Now, after 10 years in Bradford, along with a second location in Barrie, the owners have re-established themselves as a strong and significant relationship with the local community.
When asked what prompted the rebrand to “Perfect SZN”, owner, Jason Farrugia said it had to do with the licensing contract and doing something new.
“The licensing agreement was in place spring of 2012, and it was a 10-year contract,” he said. “We would rather do what we do under our own brand and we figured this was a great time to do so. Before, everything was done by us besides the name. The food and drink menus were created by Eric Fex and myself but were attached to the Don Cherry’s brand so everything was us except for the name. Now everything is us including the name.”
In terms of community engagement and support, Farrugia explained that over the years, they were able to establish a solid clientele and customer base which allowed them to further contribute to the community in return.
During their 10-years in business, Farrugia and Fex have not only taken pride in serving food and beverages but have frequented and supported other local businesses and organizations too.
“We are generally community-oriented and enjoy helping other local businesses of course,” said Farrugia.
The restaurant has raised and donated money to the Bradford Legion, The Out of the Cold Cafe, and Helping Hand Food Bank.
“We have a menu item called the ‘Donator Hamburger’ and when ordered, one dollar of that goes to the Helping Hand Food Bank,” said Farrugia. “During our Super Bowl night here, we were able to raise $600 for the Helping Hand Food Bank and twice a week we also supply to the 'Out of the Cold Cafe’. We’ll always do our part when we can, of course, no question.”
Farrugia and Fex shop local for their own business needs whenever possible. The uniforms for Perfect SZN were made by Times Designs, the signage by Vinyl Obsession, and desserts ordered from Sweet B’s bakery. The pair also sponsor many local sports teams with their fundraising initiatives.
By creating relationships with local businesses and organizations, Farrugia believes their restaurant brings a personal connection to the community.
As Farrugia puts it, “it’s like a boomerang of support — it comes back in some way”.
When asked what he loved about having a business here in Bradford, Farrugia said, “Being able to live and work in my own backyard and being able to see the regulars and engage with them. It’s so nice to see the support and see them come in on their favourite day of the week.”
Perfect SZN is located at 100 Dissette St. in Bradford.
